Can losing weight help with my back pain?

The loss of excess body weight especially in the mid-section will help reduce the stress that is placed on the back therefore in some cases will minimize some back pain. Another way to reduce back pain is to strengthen the core region which will in turn also reduce unwanted stress placed on the back.

Absolutely! Weight loss can help reduce back pain, knee pain, and lots of other types of aches and pains. If you are suffering from any kind of pain, be sure to check with your doctor before beginning an exercise program. The spine, hips, knees, and ankles are all designed to help share the load of your body. If you are carrying extra weight, then all of these joints experience unnecessary stress. Being overweight is associated with a sedentary lifestyle which contributes to low back pain. Research shows individuals that 80% of adults will experience low back pain at some point in their life, and it occurs primarily in individuals who sit for longer than three hours in small workspaces. When you are seated, most of the muscles which assist in stabilizing your hips and trunk are not required to do anything. Especially with the slouching posture which is becoming more and more common. If you don’t use your muscles, you lose them. After some time of these muscles being in a relaxed state, they simply do not contract the way they should. This can further increase the amount of work your low back has to do. Exercise can help to keep the weight under control and proper core training can increase the potential of the stabilizing muscle to do their job. If you have to sit for extended periods of time, try working on your posture immediately. Check to be sure your head is sitting on top of your spine and not drooping over in front of you. Pull your shoulders back and push your chest out (yes, this can feel awkward at first). Then, pull your belly button into your spine. If you have trouble with this and you have checked with your doctor that it is safe for you to begin an exercise program, seek the help of a certified personal trainer. They are trained to help increase your fitness and potentially improve your posture and reduce your back pain.

Continue Learning about Impact Of Losing Weight

Losing weight can be one of the best things you can do for your physical and emotional health. It can slash your risk of illness, help prevent a cancer diagnosis and improve your self-esteem. But not all weight loss is created equ...

al. Losing weight too quickly and you risk malnutrition, dehydration and even hair loss. It's recommended that for effective weight loss, stick to dropping two pounds a week and always keep in mind – it's a marathon, not a sprint.

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Impact Of Losing Weight

Losing weight can be one of the best things you can do for your physical and emotional health. It can slash your risk of illness, help prevent a cancer diagnosis and improve your self-esteem. But not all weight loss is created equal. Losing weight too quickly and you risk malnutrition, dehydration and even hair loss. It's recommended that for effective weight loss, stick to dropping two pounds a week and always keep in mind – it's a marathon, not a sprint.